Ultimate Garden Salad Recipe

Hey there, it's Kelsey here! I'm super excited to share my go-to Ultimate Garden Salad Recipe with you. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re having a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a fancy get-together. Let’s dive right in!

What Exactly is My Garden Salad?

So, what makes this salad “ultimate”? Well, it’s all about simplicity and versatility. This isn’t one of those fancy salads with a million ingredients. It’s just good, wholesome veggies that you probably already have in your fridge. And the best part? You can totally customize it to your taste. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some herbs or a different type of vinegar. Want to keep it classic? Stick with the basics. No rules here, just deliciousness.

What You Need

Salad:

• 1 small head of iceberg lettuce or other lettuce or leafy greens: Chopped into big bite-size pieces (about 5 to 6 big handfuls). Iceberg is crisp and refreshing, but if you prefer something with more flavor, go for romaine or arugula.
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved: Or you can use 2 regular tomatoes cut into wedges or chunks. Tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and color.
• 1 cucumber, sliced: I usually go for a medium Lebanese or Persian cucumber, but half a long English cucumber works great too. Cucumbers keep things cool and crunchy.
• 1 carrot, peeled and grated: A box grater is your best friend here. Grated carrots add a touch of sweetness and a bit of texture.
• 1 tsp parsley or chives, very finely chopped (optional): If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of parsley or chives can really elevate the dish. But hey, no pressure!

Dressing:

• 1 tbsp cider vinegar (or any vinegar or lemon juice): Cider vinegar is my go-to, but you can use white wine vinegar, balsamic, red wine vinegar, or even plain white vinegar. Each one brings its own unique flavor.
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or other neutral oil): Olive oil adds a rich, buttery flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, use a neutral oil like grapeseed or vegetable oil.
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy smooth mustard): Mustard helps emulsify the dressing and adds a subtle tang.
• 1/2 tsp cooking or kosher salt (or 1/4 tsp table salt): Salt brings out the flavors of the veggies.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: A little pepper goes a long way in adding depth.

How to Make the Ultimate Garden Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Shake the dressing in a jar. It’s that simple! Just combine the cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a jar, close the lid, and give it a good shake. Taste it and adjust as needed. More oil for a creamier, less tangy dressing. More vinegar for a zingy kick. A pinch of sugar can also help balance the flavors if you like it a bit sweeter.

Step 2: Toss the Salad

Place all the salad ingredients in a big bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until the veggies are evenly coated. This step is crucial because you want every bite to be packed with flavor.

Step 3: Serve Immediately

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and serve it right away. Freshness is key with salads, so don’t let it sit around for too long. Trust me, it’s best when it’s just made.

Tips

• Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to add or swap out ingredients based on what you have or what you love. Maybe throw in some bell peppers, radishes, or even some cooked quinoa for a heartier meal.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the veggies, the better the salad. So, try to use the crispest, most vibrant ingredients you can find.
• Don’t Overdress: A little dressing goes a long way. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away once it’s mixed in.

When Will It Last?

This salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, they’ll keep in the fridge for about 24 hours. Just be aware that the veggies might start to wilt a bit, so it’s best to enjoy it right after you make it.

Best Way to Serve (My Style)

I love to serve this salad with a variety of other dishes. It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty sandwich. For a more casual setting, just pop it in a big bowl and let everyone dig in. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, garnish it with a few slices of avocado or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese. Yum!